LOS ANGELES (thefutoncritic.com) -- ABC has opted to roll back its third season order for "Scandal" from 22 to 18 episodes, Deadline.com reports.

While no official reason was given, said report speculates star Kerry Washington's real-life pregnancy was a factor, requiring a reduced workload for the actress, who's in most scenes.

"Scandal" has averaged a stellar 9.183 million viewers and a 3.05 rating among adults 18-49 through its first eight episodes this season. Number nine aired last night with number 10 due on December 12. The series will then take a previously announced break until February 27 for the back half of its run.

[03/31/15 - 02:09 PM]"House of Lies" Renewed for a Fifth Season On Showtime(R)"When you have a gifted acting ensemble led by Don Cheadle and smart, acerbic writing led by showrunner Matthew Carnahan you expect something special, and "House of Lies" delivers for us each season," said Gary Levine.